Rakim Sets The World on Fire With Tweets About Today’s Rap Music
Roman White February 14, 2018
Rakim is not rocking with today’s hip-hop scene. The Goat emcee and one half of the legendary DJ/Rapper duo Eric B & Rakim, took to Twitter on Tuesday to – with as much detail as possible and taking full advantage of the extended character count– make his opinion on the rap scene today known.
“You are now witnessing the devolution of rap music,” Rakim said. “The death of poetry and smoothness, they use this. The absence of a message. The inability to create meaningful change through words and verses, but the worse is, they don’t even know they hurt this artful purpose, it’s tragic.”
Rakim’s sentiments have been echoed from a few of the music industries OG’s who feel that what made Hip-Hop powerful is being lost. Legendary Producer Quincy Jones in a recent interview with vulture said that with the exception of Chance the Rapper and Kendrick Lamar the hip-hop music coming out was valueless. Jones referred to artists of today and producers as being “greedy” and unknowledgeable of the history.
Rakim and Quincy Jones may have a point as artists today have been if nothing else, ignorant of the history of the rap game. Platinum selling rapper XXXtentacion in a Twitch interview with DJ Akademiks claimed he was better than Tupac Shakur because Tupac didn’t make rock music. Lil Yachty in a 2016 interview with Billboard, couldn’t name five songs from neither Notorious B.I.G. or Tupac and even went as far as calling Biggie overrated, a statement which he later apologized for.
There does seem to be a vast disconnect with the OG’s and the new rappers with the almost blatant disrespect on both sides. The question now is if we’ll see the God emcee, Rakim, get back in his bag and drop some new music to ruffle some feathers.

You are now witnessing the devolution of rap music. The death of poetry and smoothness, they use this. The absence of a message. The inability to create meaningful change through words and verses, but the worse is, they don’t even know they hurt this artful purpose, it’s tragic.
— Eric B and Rakim™ (@EricBandRakim) February 12, 2018

You need to look real close at this previous tweet that’s reached almost 1 million people already and see what you read.
It says “rap” not “hip hop”.
If you don’t know the difference, you can’t make a difference. #KNOWtheLEDGE
— Eric B and Rakim™ (@EricBandRakim) February 14, 2018

What’s the craziest pick up line you’ve heard from guys trying to get your attention?
Cant think of any now.

How do you get into “character” for a photoshoot?
I activate my alter Ego Chica Maravilla (Wonder Women) and slay.

What’s your favorite accomplishment in modeling so far?
My goal is to get into commercials for Target, Colgate, Gap. I recently did my first commercial for a college and I’m still super pumped about that.️

What would you say is your ultimate turn on?
A man with wisdom and experience. I love me a wise man.

Who’s your favorite photographer?
Richard Lecoin

What’s something that most people would be surprised to find out when they actually meet you?
That I’m shy and don’t like talking much at first.

Coming off of a three-month run at The African American Museum in Philadelphia, Church of Broken Pieces is currently exhibiting at the Richard Beavers Gallery. Church of Broken Pieces is a collection of vivid images by photographer Shawn Theodore, a Philadelphia-based, multidisciplinary artist work in photography, video, and collage is highly respected. Embodying a defiant brand of black artistry the collection focuses on the fragmentation and manipulation of African American and African Diaspora identities and explores the concepts of race, spirituality, patriarchy, matriarchy, and class structure within disappearing Black communities. Check out a couple of additions to the collection below:

Since I was younger I participated in several beauty pageants and hair shows. Around 2005 is when I officially started modeling seriously.

3. How did you start modeling?

I auditioned for a fashion show met a lot of great people with ample amounts of opportunities

4. So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling?

I’m a mother to a seven year old boy and I attend college for Radiation Science.

5. What would you say is your best feature and why?

My smile is contagious and genuine.

6. What else do you do for fun (besides modeling)?

I enjoy creating healthy meals, taking trips,painting, and being with family

7. Do you like sports? If so who is your favorite sports figure?
I do no preference on a figure. I ran track so track/field is my favorite to watch.8. What’s playing in your (iPod, iPhone, Android, music device)/Favorite Song (currently)?
Sza album, Wild thoughts, Pills and automobiles9. What’s the craziest pick up line you’ve heard from guys trying to get your attention?I have heard so many its hard to pin point one. The thing I find crazy would be the stalking and repeated messages on social media.

10. How do you get into “character” for a photoshoot?
Combination of Music, wardrobe and mind set

11. What’s your favorite accomplishment in modeling so far?
I would have to say two novel cover model publication sold in Barnes and noble.

12. What would you say is your ultimate turn on?
A Man who knows and works for what he wants

Sept 27th 2017, Jackson Mississippi rapper David Banner calls up 106.7fm The Beat in Columbus Ohio and receives some disturbing news. He was told that a rumor circulating the city was that he would more than likely not show up to the lecture event Speak Your Truth Summit. Shortly after the interview Mr. Banner went right to Instagram to confirm that he indeed was coming to our city and that he was proud to come to our town. Within that one minute video, you saw integrity, compassion and a deep rooted southern pride to always keep your word no matter what it costs. All qualities of being a real man.

If you have grown with David Banner like I have since the hit song Like A Pimp ft Lil Flip or major production credit on T.I.’s monumental album Trap Muzik (2003), then you know that the 2017 David Banner is not the same one we know from 2003. Of course David Banner always told well rounded stories, such as Cadillacs on 22’s referencing the death of Emmett Till and other misfortunes in his home state, but after 2006, we started to see a change and conviction in his approach to music. Maybe it was those Katrina waters of 2005 that destroyed his beloved state that brought about the enlightenment. Go back in time and remember how pissed he was when the world witnessed with it’s own eyes that the President of the United States George W. Bush didn’t give a damn about the poor and disfranchised in Florida, Mississippi, Texas and of course the city hit the worst New Orleans. This was his family that was suffering and he was the only voice fit to sound the alarm in the time period to speak about his state of emergency. (pun intended)

The Great Malcolm X said in his autobiography…once the light is turned on inside you cannot turn it off. Well Mr. Banner’s light continues to shine brighter and brighter as he brings awareness to the plight of being Black In America especially in the southern states. When Straight Official caught up with Banner…I had a lot on my mind. I was extremely perplexed. I witnessed and reposted the murder of Patrick Harmon of Salt Lake City Utah on my Uptown Weekly Instagram page. Not to mention being close to the case of Timothy Davis in Columbus Ohio. In that particular situation, by all means, we are grateful that young man is still alive. However, with strain and intensity in my eyes, I told Mr. Banner…”Sir, there’s a lot of people that don’t know….but I know you know….Please shed some light on how long we have to endure these horrendous acts in front of our face as we standby appearing to be helpless.”

“Understand I come to piss people off and make them uncomfortable. Because pain brings about attention quickly. Listen, a warrant, smoking weed, running, none of that is justifiable in killing someone. I’m not just talking about black people. Whatever color they are, if they are not directly posing a threat to a police officer and they’re just running away, my friend there is no reason for anyone to get shot. See, white people have gotten black people to think like them, so when we see someone jammed up by the police, the first thing we think in the back of our mind is ..damn what that n***a do? Now unless that man (Harmon) was wanted for murder, then shooting him doesn’t make any sense. You see, we also have to stop echoing their bullshit media commentary, just like in the Kaepernick situation. They wanna say kneeling is a disrespect to our troops. Well, the last time I checked, America treats it’s troops like shit. So as I’ve said on many stages, the only way to get “the power’s” attention is either by the loss of money or the loss of life.”

I spoke with David Banner for about 15 more minutes, and then it was time for him to get whisked away to the stage for his lecture. As he stood before the crowd he commanded everyone to turn off their cell phones from going live at his show. His reasoning is that he feels African Americans already give away too much for free. “We have to start getting paid for our talents and gifts” he states. He also said in front a semi-light audience “If folks wanted the experience, they should have brought their ass to the show.”

He then passed out his CD #Godbox to the entire audience, and then had enough time to play snippets from two songs for the appreciative crowd. He proceeded to break down why conscious music may not sell the way mainstream music does. “One reason muh fuchas may not buy ya shit is cuz it ain’t jammin. Just because your music has a message in it doesn’t mean it should suck.” As he states that Godbox is one of the most important albums to hip hop in the history of it, only the keepers of this culture and art form can co-sign that prediction. And just as we saw of 4:44, #Godbox did not have the nightclubs in mind this go round, but instead another project to wake up the minds.

After the show, David Banner showed true southern hospitality and shook as many hands and took as many pictures as he could with those that had to wait patiently almost two hours for the rapper/producer to take the stage. And he also gave many kudos to the organizer of the event Ms. Tomiqua Perry for her hard work and determination.

Lastly at David Banner’s request he wanted me to quote him saying “This is the first time I’m saying this to Black America on your article brother. Don’t be afraid, they are killing us anyway so continue to stand and speak out against injustice. They’ll kill you for obeying the law, (Philando Castile) so don’t be afraid. We have been so conditioned to be afraid of white people. I’ll say this for the first time too, most black people praise white people more than they’re own religion. They’ll cheat on their wife, kill another brother, lie, steal, do everything that bible told them not to do, but will not take a stand against wrong-doing white folks. Use that, don’t take that out, quote quote mutha fucha hahahaha. Because we have to address our conditioned mentality for change to happen as well.”

Thank you Mr. Banner for coming to our city and opening up the minds to Speak Their Truth. And be sure to pick up #GodBox on all streaming outlets (iTunes Tidal, Spotify etc)

Earlier this year I featured Charlotte area model Diamond Young as my model of the week on a popular model site. Little did I know, she’s also an amazing independent artist. Decided to do an interview with her to discuss her new single and accompanying visual entitled “Time”.

The majority of your model work is very sensual. Have you always been confident with your body?
“Absolutely!! I feel that in this day and age you have to be. If you’re not comfortable with yourself how can anyone else be?”

Do you write all of your material yourself and if not who are some of the writers you’ve worked with?“I’ve written all of the songs that I’ve put out!”

What would you label your style &/or genre. Also who are some artists who’ve influenced your sound?“I don’t know how to label my sound, honestly. I just sing. I’m obsessed with SZA’s style of singing and writing. It’s different and crazy dope.”

Which do you feel you’re most comfortable with between writing, recording or performing?“As of right now, my writing. I’m still finding myself as an artist so I still have a lot of work to do when it comes to the performance aspect of my music.”

Do you feel that the Charlotte music scene is encouraging for indie artists and why?“I feel that it is in certain aspects but it could be BETTER. A lot better. It just takes all of the artists here to come together and put it on the map! There’s so much talent here but I don’t feel that we get the recognition we deserve.”

What project are you currently promoting and who are some of the people who’ve helped you get to this point?“I’m dropping my single “Time” and the Music Video today..there’s so many people who have contributed to helping me with my music, I’d get lost trying to list them all lol.”

Who are some of the current popular artists you’d like to work with in the future?“Definitely Sza, Kehlani, Elhae, and Xavier Omär.”

What are the most difficult things you’ve had to face as an independent artist up to this point of your career?“Trying to do everything alone!!!! I’m very headstrong and I LIKE WHAT I LIKE. Lol. I’m very particular about things so I’ve had to find people who I can work well with and vibe with. Honestly, these past few years have been very hard trying to push my music by myself. But at the end of the day this is what I want and I won’t stop until I get it!!”

What’s next for you after the release of “Time”?“I’m going to start working on an EP and maybe even a visual project so just stay tuned. “

Thank you for taking out time to sit with us and good luck on a very successful music career in the years to come.

Tell everybody your name and where you’re from?
“My name is Talisha Williams aka Tata, and I’m from Richmond, VA.”

So how long have you been modeling?
I’ve been modeling since I was 13, but I didn’t start taking it seriously till last year in September.

How did you start modeling?
I started modeling when I was 13. I went to Barbizon School of Modeling and Acting, but after facing rejection from a few agencies I stopped, and put all my focus on school. Then last September, I still loved and wanted to model so I gave it another try. I started working with local photographers, and posting my work on Instagram and Model Mayhem, and I’ve just been getting consistent work ever since.

So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling?
I am also an actress. I’ve been in local indie films, short films, and national and local TV commercials. I’m currently starring in a feature film titled “Wrong Number” that may debut on Netflix once it’s done filming. I’m also a semi-pro cheerleader for the Richmond Roughriders arena football team.

What would you say is your best feature and why?
My smile. I’ve been told it’s infectious, and can light up a room.

What else do you do for fun (besides modeling)?
I like to hang out with friends, go to the beach and go to the movies.

Do you like sports?
If so who is your favorite sports figure? I’m not into sports, but I do have a favorite football team. I like the Patriots, and Tom Brady is the goat.

What’s playing in your (iPod, iPhone, Android, music device)/Favorite Song (currently)?
Future, Sza, the Migos, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Uzi Vert. My favorite song right now is Cardi B Bodak Yellow of course.

What’s the craziest pick up line you’ve heard from guys trying to get your attention?
In a bar a guy once told me, “hey girl did you just fall from heaven? Because you’re an angel.”

How do you get into “character” for a photoshoot?
It depends on what I’m wearing for the shoot. If it’s sexy or high fashion, I just embody those vibes once the camera starts shooting.

What’s your favorite accomplishment in modeling so far?
I have two. The first is when I went to Miami for Miami Swim Week last July, and modeled for swimsuit designers. The second is when I did a shoot for the Black Pyramid clothing line, and Chris Brown reposted it to his Instagram.

What would you say is your ultimate turn on?
A nice smile, skin and pretty eyes.

Who’s your favorite photographer?
Mert Alaş and Marcus Piggott, I’d love to do a high fashion shoot with them one day.

What’s something that most people would be surprised to find out when they actually meet you?
That I’m not stuck up. Most people see my model pics, or they see me in person, and they’ll think that. I’m not, I’m far from that. I’m very down to earth, chill and laid back. Probably the goofiest and ditziest person you’ll ever meet.

How can people get in contact with you?
For bookings you can email me at williamstk91@gmail.com, and you can keep up with my work by following me on Instagram @_talishawilliams_ or on my website talishawilliams.com.

Houston native Kidricc James is no stranger to the city’s past successes of independent Hip-Hop musicians. Many Houston artists have emerged from the city with tremendous success utilizing independent retail distributors, mom and pop stores, “Out the Trunk” tactics, and linking up with other successful music independent regions such as the Bay Area of California in a movement then titled “The SouthWest Connection.” But with the untimely demise of retail distributors, the closing of many mom and pops stores, and only a small fraction of shelf space left within retailers that still sell music such as Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Target, etc., Houston’s independent scene had to regroup and re-strategize their independent efforts to ensure continued success.

Formerly known as K.I.D., Kidricc James has collaborated with the likes of such artists as Pusha T, The Runners, Bun B, Devin the Dude, Paul Wall, Slim Thug, and Lil Jon just to name a few. One of Kidricc’s most proud accomplishments was being the first artist from the South to battle and win “Fight Klub,” a show that was produced and aired on MTV2. Kidricc since then has released 14 projects and have moved over 1 million units independently.

Even though Kidricc is dealing with the tragedy that has impacted his city caused by Hurricane Harvey, Kidricc still has his sight set on his new single release entitled “A Million”, which has just started to impact FM Broadcast Radio, and his 15th project release Kidricc is slating for Friday September 29th off his imprint, King James Entertainment.

Eye Color: Green
Hair Color: Brown
Height: 5’8″
Bust: 36
Waist:28
Hips:41
What would you rate yourself from 1-10? I would rate myself a 10 on inner and outer beauty

Tell everybody your name and where you’re from?
“What’s up everybody. I’m “Legendary” Queen Lo “from da 4,” so you already know where I am from, Charlotte, NC!!”So how long have you been modeling?
“Well, I started modeling as a child around 4 years old but quit later on. I’ve been taking it seriously for about 6 years now.”How did you start modeling?
“I was discovered young by an agency and I did little clothing catalogues. Later, I asked my mom to stop modeling and she let me. (In hindsight, I’m glad. That way I can know for sure it’s really a part of me.) Growing up, I always watched America’s Next Top Model and practiced faces and posing in the mirror. Life growing up just blended me into the “industry” and I started getting in front of the camera more and more. It’s pretty much a part of me now, I love being in front of the camera.”So what are you doing with yourself besides modeling?
“Modeling is only just a piece of what I do. I run my website SoQueenLo.com, which has music reviews, new music videos, and upcoming artist reviews. I am also a contributor for FMC Mag (shout out Detriot) and Straight Offical Mag. Aside from writing, you can catch me interviewing well known and upcoming artists as well as covering events on my YouTube channel.”What would you say is your best feature and why?
“That’s a great question! I would say my ambition is my best feature. I always strive to remain optimistic and it’s what gives me a zest for life, living each day to the fullest! But if we’re talking physical, my ass. Why? Because even I like to give it a squeeze sometimes. I really do have a nice ass.”What else do you do for fun (besides modeling)?
“I love reading and writing. I do a lot of poetry and correlating drawings. I really wanna try some spoken word out soon. I also just straight up love adventure, so if it’s something new, I’m down!”Do you like sports? If so who is your favorite sports figure?
“I don’t like all sports, but I do like football. (I have just always cheered, maybe that’s why.) I am from Charlotte though, and hold my city down, so Goooo PANTHERS! Need I say more?”What’s playing in your (iPod, iPhone, Android, music device)/Favorite Song (currently)?
“Well, I’ve been on my smooth and airy vibes, so you can definitely find Noname and Ravyn Lanae on my Apple Music. Yet, Gucci is one of my favorite artists. “I Get The Bag,” his latest single is on replay too!”What’s the craziest pick up line you’ve heard from guys trying to get your attention?
“The question should be “what pick up line have you not heard?” It’s funny because I’ve heard the classics and some that were quite the original line. I like when I get thrown off by something funny. That’s when you can catch my attention.”How do you get into “character” for a photoshoot?
“I have been doing this for so long and it’s so natural that it is hard to describe. But, lots of practice is what prepped that natural switch.”What’s your favorite accomplishment in modeling so far?
“Walking in my first fashion show is probably the most exciting thing I’ve done. It was the same weekend I celebrated my first time as a published writer, it was a great experience.”What would you say is your ultimate turn on?
“Hmmm, I gotta say grind and hustle turn me on. Exterior looks come second, but if a man has dedication and ambition he has my attention. Add some chocolate skin and dreads and I’m gonna melt.”Who’s your favorite photographer?
“Is it biased if I say, Marcal Anthony? He is my favorite when it comes to sexy shots that make me feel beautiful. I also love shooting with Yyeli_lens. She is a fool with the urban street shots.”What’s something that most people would be surprised to find out when they actually meet you?
“Well, there’s lots that people don’t know and that’s why I plan on writing a best-seller in the next coming years. Another fun fact, I love listening to beats and freestyling a song or rap.”How can people get in contact with you?

Check out the latest top 5 with DJ Samore. She counts down top 5 records on the radio , based on mediabase/bds, streets, and find out what’s going to be or is that record next to blow. This episode feature the talented brothers Jake and Papa, discussing their latest project “Tattoos and Blues”. Watch the episode here.